Moon Boot or après-ski boots: a complete guide to Icon styles, wraparound fit and snow outfits

Moon Boot e Doposci: guida ai modelli Icon, calzata e stile sulla neve

First created in autumn 1969, inspired by designer Giancarlo Zanatta’s observation of the boots worn by the Apollo 11 astronauts, the Moon Boot forever redefined the look of après-ski and mountain footwear. For over fifty years, it has been more than just a ski boot: it’s an ambidextrous technical sculpture that turned thermal protection into a universal visual signature, beloved on the runways of Paris and the slopes of Cortina and St. Moritz.

Today, the range has evolved far beyond the iconic nylon silhouette: from the mirror-finish Icon Glance to the urban practicality of the Icon Low with platform sole and styles in shearling and soft suede, choosing between silhouettes, wraparound sizing and snow performance calls for clarity.

In this guide, we compare the styles in our selection, explain how the size bands work and suggest how to wear them from the chalet to the city.


Moon Boot comparison: Icon Glance Tall vs Icon Low Glance vs Padded Boots

The main differences within the Moon Boot collection are the shaft height, sole volume and upper material. Here’s a comparison of the technical features:

Feature Moon Boot Icon Glance (Tall) Moon Boot Icon Low Glance (Platform) Padded Suede Boots
Shaft height 33–38 cm (below the knee) 16–18 cm (ankle height) 14 cm (sneakerboot style)
Upper material Water-repellent Glance satin-finish vinyl Water-repellent satin-finish vinyl Suede + technical fabric
Sole height 3 cm in thermoplastic rubber (TR) 6 cm (raised sculptural platform) 2.5 cm with lug sole
Fit Ambidextrous, multi-size wraparound fit Ambidextrous, multi-size wraparound fit Single European sizing (36-41)
Intended use Deep snow, blizzards, iconic après-ski Rainy/cold city days, mountain weekends Everyday metropolitan sport-luxe look
Thermal insulation Polyurethane foam lining down to -35°C Insulating padded lining Breathable thermal lining
Moon Boot Icon Glance in a platinum metallic finish at a luxury alpine chalet

“From high-altitude slopes to metropolitan streetwear: the Icon Glance’s sculptural finish shows how technical design can become a timeless style icon.”

Après-Ski Trend Report · Vittorio Citro Boutique Style Notes


Moon Boot Icon Glance: the high-impact lunar icon

The Moon Boot Icon Glance is the most sophisticated and glamorous version of the original 1969 icon. Its distinctive feature is the Glance fabric: a glossy satin finish with platinum and silver metallic reflections that captures the light of snow-covered peaks.

  • Total protection: the high shaft wraps around the calf, preventing fresh snow and splashes from getting in, even when walking on untracked snow.
  • Patented sole: the natural rubber tread with raised suction cups delivers immediate traction on icy surfaces and slippery steps.
  • Heritage details: the central band with contrasting embossed logo, tubular D-ring eyelets, and adjustable top drawstring preserve the original design.

It’s an indispensable choice for anyone looking for the classic high-altitude après-ski boot, ideal with ribbed thermal leggings, a cashmere turtleneck, and cropped oversized down jackets.


Moon Boot Icon Low: the compact après-ski boot with an extra-high platform

For those looking for Moon Boot thermal comfort but a more agile, versatile shoe, the Icon Low Glance with a 6 cm platform has become a style phenomenon over recent winter seasons.

  1. Cropped silhouette: ending just above the ankle, the Icon Low slips on and off in an instant, without having to loosen the entire lacing.
  2. Raised platform: the thick sole provides extra insulation from icy pavement and elongates the figure, creating modern, editorial proportions.
  3. Urban-to-mountain versatility: pairs naturally with both fitted ski suits and relaxed straight-leg jeans, corduroy cargo pants, and double-breasted wool coats.

The size puzzle: how the Moon Boot size range fit works

One of the things that causes the most uncertainty when buying is the multi-size numbering. Unlike traditional footwear, Moon Boot Icon styles are not made in individual sizes (such as 37 or 38), but in size ranges:

  • Size range 35–38 (fits sizes 35 to 38)
  • Size range 39–41 (fits sizes 39 to 41)
  • Size range 42–44 (fits sizes 42 to 44)

Why does the size range system work?

Inside the shaft and upper is a high-density foam lining with thermal memory. When you first put your foot in, the padding may feel snug or almost firm. After a few minutes of wear, your body heat molds the foam to the exact shape of your foot, for a secure, personalized fit.

Boutique expert tip:
If you usually wear a size between two ranges (for example, a generous 38 or a 38.5), we always recommend sizing up to the next range (39–41). This ensures the ideal space for thick merino wool thermal socks without restricting peripheral circulation.

They’re ambidextrous: there’s no right or left boot

Another ingenious detail of Moon Boot design is its symmetrical, ambidextrous shape: there is no right or left boot when they come out of the box. With continued wear during the first few days, the inner lining adapts to the shape of the wearer's right and left foot.


Waterproofing and care: how to clean them after the snow

Moon Boot styles in the Glance and Nylon lines are made with water-repellent membranes designed to withstand dry and wet snow and low temperatures.

To preserve their shine over time and prevent stains from salt and road mud: - Never put them in the washing machine: heat and the spin cycle could damage the rubber structure and inner padding. - Routine cleaning: use a soft microfiber cloth lightly dampened with lukewarm water and mild neutral soap. - Air-dry naturally: leave them to air-dry, away from direct heat sources (radiators, stoves, or hair dryers), which could harden the thermoplastic rubber.


Frequently asked questions about Moon Boot (FAQ)

Are Moon Boots completely waterproof for walking through puddles?

The Moon Boot Icon Glance and Icon Nylon feature treated water-repellent uppers and watertight rubber soles, making them perfect for deep snow, mud, and ice. However, they are not one-piece rubber rain boots: for prolonged walking through deep standing water, footwear with a welded waterproof membrane is recommended.

What size should I choose for children’s Moon Boots?

Children’s Moon Boots (such as the Little Yeti or Icon Junior models) come in specific size ranges: 19/22, 23/26, 27/30, and 31/34. We recommend measuring the foot length in centimeters and choosing a range with at least 1.5 cm of extra room to allow for growth and thick socks.

Can I drive while wearing Moon Boot Icons?

Due to the substantial sole and padded shaft, we do not recommend driving in the high Icon models, as they reduce sensitivity on the pedals. The Icon Low or padded ankle boots offer greater flexibility for short trips.

How can you tell an original Moon Boot from an imitation?

Authentic Moon Boots feature a perfectly proportioned heat-stamped logo, metal lace loops welded without imperfections, a sewn-in inner label with a Tecnica Group serial number, and a patented rubber sole with geometric suction cups and the Moon Boot name embossed on the tread. Vittorio Citro Boutique has been an authorized official retailer since 1917.

Vittorio Citro Boutique since 1917

Official authorized Moon Boot retailer (Tecnica Group). Express tracked shipping in 24/48h, easy returns within 30 days, and personalized in-boutique assistance with sizing and fit.

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